Mikey 23 Foundation Renovates Dilapidated Lansing Home

The foundation partnered with local youth to rehabilitate a house previously slated for demolition in Lansing.

Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Home Renovation

Screen-print poster illustration of a residential roof under repair, with pristine cedar shingles and metal flashing, representing neighborhood restoration. — The Mikey 23 Foundation has completed the renovation of a formerly condemned Lansing home, turning the property into affordable housing. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Mikey 23 Foundation has completed the renovation of a Lansing property once labeled the ugliest house on the block. The home, which was originally scheduled for demolition, will now be sold as affordable housing to a local family.

Why it matters

The project aims to reduce local gun violence by offering mentorship and trades education to teens. By partnering with the Lansing Police Department, the foundation provides youth with structured activities and professional skill development.

The Mikey 23 Foundation was established in 2015. The organization successfully transitioned the property from a planned demolition to a completed residence.

The players

Mikey 23 Foundation

This organization works to combat gun violence by providing youth with mentorship and opportunities in trades education.

Michael McKissic

He founded the organization in 2015 after his son was killed in a shooting.

Lansing Police Department

The department collaborated with the foundation to provide mentorship for participants during the project.

Ingham County Weapons Court

This judicial program involves local teens who assisted in the construction work as part of the initiative.

The details

Teens from Ingham County's weapons court, local youth, and officers worked together to rebuild the structure from the roof down. This hands-on collaboration focused on providing vocational training while revitalizing a neglected neighborhood asset.

The Mikey 23 Foundation was established in 2015 following the death of Michael McKissic's son.

Culture Shift

This project reflects a growing emphasis on restorative justice through the mentorship and trades education model. By moving away from purely punitive measures, the initiative integrates youth into neighborhood improvement efforts to foster long-term community stability.

Residents benefit from the removal of a blighted property that was previously slated for demolition. The addition of this home into the local affordable housing market provides a tangible resource for families seeking stable residency.

The takeaway

This initiative demonstrates that repurposing vacant properties can serve as a catalyst for both neighborhood beautification and youth empowerment. Residents looking to support similar efforts can seek opportunities to volunteer with local organizations that pair trades training with community service.